HomeMy WebLinkAboutJohnson Letter of OppositionBarnstable Historical Commission
367 Main Street
Hyannis, MA 02601
Re: Opposition to the Proposed Relocation/Demolition of 49 Putnam Avenue, Cotuit
Dear Members of the Commission,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed moving or demolition of the historic home
at 49 Putnam Avenue in Cotuit.
This house is not simply an old structure; it is one of the earliest homes built in Cotuit, constructed by
Ebenezer Crocker, whose father founded the village’s first settlement. Its location was deliberately
chosen for its commanding view of Cotuit Harbor, a view that later played a critical role in shaping
Cotuit’s identity as one of Cape Cod’s earliest summer destinations.
Over the centuries, 49 Putnam Avenue has been home to individuals and events that define Cotuit’s
story:
• Samuel Hooper, U.S. Congressman, welcomed friends and colleagues here, establishing Cotuit
as a gathering place for influential figures.
• The home once served as one of Cotuit’s Post Offices, underscoring its role as a community hub.
• Later, as the residence of the Ropes family, it became tied to Harriet Ropes Cabot, who was
instrumental in moving the Cotuit Mosquito Yacht Club to this very property. The CMYC
remains the oldest youth wooden boat racing club in America, and its association with this
home is inseparable from its history.
To remove or relocate this house is to strip Cotuit of an irreplaceable piece of its narrative. Its
significance is not just in the timbers or foundation, but in its connection to place — the land, the
harbor, and the generations of people who lived, worked, and built community there.
As a past President of the Historical Society of Santuit and Cotuit, and a long-serving board member, I
know how deeply this village values its history. Cotuit may be a small village, but its history is rich,
layered, and nationally significant. Preserving structures such as 49 Putnam Avenue in their original
locations is essential if we are to tell our story with honesty and integrity.
Allowing this home to be moved would do irreparable harm to Cotuit’s cultural heritage. We have a
responsibility to future generations to protect the authenticity of our historic landscape.
I strongly urge the Commission to deny any petition to move or demolish 49 Putnam Avenue. The
loss of this house, in its rightful place, would be a profound injustice to our shared history.
Thank you for your consideration of this urgent matter.
Respectfully,
Elizabeth Johnson
President, Historical Society of Santuit and Cotuit (2019–2024)
Board Member (2013–2024)
5 Putnam Avenue
Cotuit, MA 02635